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South American Landscapes


11 Nights And 12 Days

Santiago - Mendoza - Buenos Aires - Iguassu - Rio De Janeiro

Price Starting From: USD 1,647.00

This tour begins in European-influenced Santiago de Chile before heading to the relaxing wine region of Mendoza, Argentina. Progressing to Buenos Aires, there is the chance to explore many of the city’s intriguing and varied neighbourhoods and learn something of their history. The tour continues to the awe-inspiring Iguaçu Falls, where this magnificent natural beauty can be observed from both sides of the border. The trip concludes in Brazil’s lively Rio, for sightseeing, optional beaches and nightlife.
Highlights:
• Sightsee in the exciting and diverse capital cities of both Santiago de Chile and Buenos Aires, where modern and historic contrast
• Sup wine in the cultural Argentine city of Mendoza with its delightful Andean backdrop and historical charm



 



Tour Duration : 11 Nights And 12 Days

Destinations Covered: Santiago - Mendoza - Buenos Aires - Iguassu - Rio De Janeiro

Package Inclusions:

• All applicable taxes
• All transfers as per the itinerary
• Accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed hotels or similar
• Meals as indicated on the itinerary
• All sightseeing & entrance fees as per the itinerary: San Cristóbal Hill & funicular, Sugar Loaf Mtn, Iguaçu National Park Brazil & Argentina
• Services of local English speaking guides
Package Exclusions:

• Meals not mentioned as being included
• Beverages with meals
• International/Internal Airfare
• Visa fees
• Items of a personal nature
• Tips & gratuities
• Optional tours
• Travel Insurance


DAY 01 TUESDAY SANTIAGO (-/-/-)
Upon arrival in Santiago de Chile, transfer to your hotel. Your South American adventure commences with a half day (4 hour) city tour of Santiago de Chile. This diverse city, home to more than five million residents, is a city of contrasts where you can see remnants of its colonial past and also the ultra-modern high rise buildings of the financial center. The European influence in the city’s culture is noticeable. To begin, the city tour visits the San Francisco church, which was built between 1572 and 1618. The tour continues by the sector of Club Hípico. Here you can see one of the most beautiful horseracing tracks in South America. Next the tour heads to the Barrio Concha y Toro before arriving at the grandiose Plaza de Armas. On this square you will find historic buildings such as the cathedral, and close by the main post office building, the Natural History Museum and the “Palacio de la Moneda” (seat of government). The tour continues up the San Cristóbal Hill, from which you will gasp at the fine views of Santiago and the surrounding Andes. Finally, the tour heads to the modern residential areas on the way back to the hotel. Overnight in Santiago.
DAY 02 WEDNESDAY SANTIAGO DE CHILE (B/-/-)
Day free for leisure – the following optional tour can be booked through our local office: Optional: Full day excursion to Valparaiso and Viña del Mar Heading west from Santiago, this trip first stops at the charming coastal town of Valparaiso. The tour passes through the main square. Here you can see the monument to commemorate the Naval Battle fought in 1879. Next the tour heads to the southern part of the city where you can photograph the old funiculars for which Valparaiso is famous. Driving up the hillside, the tour stops for spectacular views of the bay, the downtown district and the adjoining hills. Following a drive to the lower level of the city through the commercial port, the tour then makes its way to the resort city of Viña del Mar via the coastal highway. A special treat awaits at the Concón beach where you have a chance to see the various fish stands displaying today’s catch, with a huge variety of seafood for sale. Viña del Mar is a favourite beach spot for Chileans, and summer homes and restaurants line the coast. Finally, visit the main square, Plaza Vergara and the shopping avenue before returning to Santiago.
DAY 03 THURSDAY SANTIAGO DE CHILE – MENDOZA (B/-/-)
The bus trip from Santiago to Mendoza offers up a feast for the eyes, with panoramic Andean scenery along the way. After breakfast you will be transferred to Santiago’s downtown bus terminal, where you will board the comfortable public bus to Mendoza, Argentina. The drive provides spectacular mountainous scenery. Passing the city of Lost Andes, the bus heads upwards along “Ruta 60” with a scenic backdrop of the Andean Mountains. You will pass Portillo, Chile’s premier winter sports destination, located at the foot of the mighty Aconcagua, the highest mountain in South America. Leaving Chile, you cross the border into Argentina by means of a tunnel built in 1980. Heading downhill, you will pass the “Puente del Inca” (Inca Bridge), a strange rock formation resembling a bridge crossing the Mendoza river. Passing Argentina’s best-known ski resort, Los Penitentes, you will arrive at your destination, Mendoza. You will arrive at the bus terminal in Mendoza and transfer to your hotel. Please note: Sometimes due to bad weather, the transfer by bus is cancelled. This can happen during spring and autumn. In this case, passengers will have to take a flight from Santiago to Mendoza. Passengers are responsible for this cost.
DAY 04 FRIDAY MENDOZA (B/-/-)
The cultural city of Mendoza was founded and colonized by the Spanish four centuries ago. This 3-4 hour city tour takes in a visit to the Independence Plaza, the main avenues and the Civic Centre. Other highlights include the Founding area, the Aquarium (optional), General Martin Park and the Hill of Glory, from which you can enjoy magnificent views. A fun optional extra tour is to the important wineries and bodegas surrounding the city. This trip includes wine tasting.
DAY 05 SATURDAY MENDOZA-BUENOS AIRES (B/-/) FLIGHT (not included)
Transfer from the hotel in Mendoza to the airport for your flight to Buenos Aires. Upon arrival in Buenos Aires transfer from the airport to the hotel. In the afternoon, your city tour of Argentina’s historic capital city begins with a drive to the Plaza de Mayo. You will visit the most important and interesting sites, including the “Casa Rosada” (the pink house, home of the government), the Cabildo (town hall) and the Metropolitan Cathedral, home of the Archbishop of Buenos Aires. The tour continues to the district of San Telmo. Today, this is one of the most fashionable and desirable places to live, but until the late 1880s, it was a river port. The tour continues to the famous La Boca neighbourhood. The area is rich with history, as it was traditionally the worker district where Italian seamen and dock workers resided. The colourful tin houses and lively street life provides ample photographic opportunities. Next, the tour heads to Recoleta, the quarter of the rich of Buenos Aires. In Recoleta’s cemetery, you can see the grave of Evita Perón, Argentina’s former First Lady and beloved heroine of the working classes. Finally, the tour takes in Avenida 9 de Julio, the widest avenue in the world, the Federal Court of Justice in Plaza Lavalle, and Teatro Colón, before stopping off at leafy Palermo for a wander in its pretty parks and gardens. Return to the hotel. Optional: Evening visit to see Argentina’s unique dance – a Tango Show with dinner at the Restaurant Viejo Almacen.
DAY 06 SUNDAY BUENOS AIRES (B/-/-)
Day free at leisure – the following optional tours can be booked through our local office: Optional: Relax in the morning, and in the afternoon, take a trip to the bustling San Telmo market, in the oldest district of Buenos Aires. Here you can frequently get a glimpse into Argentine life at its most traditional, enjoying the spectacle of Tango dancing couples in the street. Amble around the famous antiques market in Plaza Dorrego, or stop in at one of the antiques shops, for a souvenir or two. Alternatively, grab a coffee and just watch the world go by. Optional: Full day visit to a typical Argentinean Estancia (including lunch) When thinking of Argentina, a typical image is that of gauchos in the pampas, and this trip allows a peek into this world. Following a 2 hour drive to Los Cordales, we arrive at Estancia Santa Susana. Guests are greeted by gauchos with welcome drinks. The day continues with opportunities to see at first hand the lives of the gauchos, while also taking in the scenic countryside. A rustic barbecue (asado) lunch of fine meats and sausages is followed by a presentation of regional music and dances. During this folkloric show you will observe the men’s agility on their horses. Return to Buenos Aires following afternoon coffee and tea.
DAY 07 MONDAY BUENOS AIRES (B/-/-)
Half day tour of Tigre The Tigre Delta with its many rivers, streams and greenery, is a welcome nature escape after a couple of days in urban Buenos Aires. The tour commences through the northern residential districts of the city to San Isidro, an attractive suburb with colonial mansions along the River Plate. The tour continues to Tigre, an area of summer residences, yacht and rowing clubs which attracts the elite “porteño” crowd at the weekends. A boat excursion (1 hour) allows you the chance to enjoy the channels of the Paraná-Delta to see some of the hundreds of islands covered with thick, lush vegetation, and coloured an unusual brownish red. The return journey takes the Panamericana Highway back to the city.
DAY 08 TUESDAY BUENOS AIRES – IGUAÇU (B/-/-) FLIGHT (not included)
Transfer to the domestic airport for the flight to Iguaçu. The flight is not included. On arrival at the airport you will be met and transferred to the Argentinean National Park, headed in the direction of these awe-inspiring falls. After a short stop at the educational Visitor’s Centre you will be guided around the Inferior Circuit, the down-river falls, to the Superior Circuit, the up-river cascades. Don’t miss the Ecological Jungle Train which leads you to the most extraordinary observation point of the falls, and perhaps the best spot for your photos – The Devil’s Throat. After your visit, transfer to your hotel on the Brazilian side of the falls.
DAY 09 WEDNESDAY IGUAÇU (B/-/-)
The Brazilian side of the falls is the morning’s focus. Enjoy the Devil’s Throat from close to the bottom, reached via a catwalk, with magnificent views. Wander the paths of this spectacular natural wonder, taking in pretty cascades and interesting wildlife along the way. To return, take the elevator back to the road to board the coach and return to the hotel. Afternoon is free for optional excursions.
DAY 10 THURSDAY IGUAÇU – RIO DE JANEIRO (B/-/-) FLIGHT (not included)
Transfer to the airport and flight to Rio de Janeiro. The flight is not included. On arrival in one of the most exciting cities in South America transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, there is a half day city tour which includes a visit to Sugarloaf Mountain. Downtown is the bustling business heart of Rio. Here, colonial Rio and modern skyscrapers collide, for unusual urban photographs. Passing down Rio Branco Avenue by corporate headquarters and Brazilian banks, the tour takes in the Candelaria Church, built during the 18th century and completed in 1898. You’ll also see the Opera House (Teatro Municipal) and the Carioca Square, along with other delights such as the church of Santo Antonio built in the 17th century and modern buildings such as Petrobras and the Cathedral. You’ll have an opportunity to see Rio’s aqueduct (built in the 18th century) which connects downtown to the historic Santa Teresa district. Following this, the tour continues to the Flamengo Park, from which you may visit the awesome Sugarloaf Mountain via cable car. At 1,200 feet high, you’ll have breathtaking views over the Rio metropolitan area, a highlight of any trip to Brazil.
DAY 11 FRIDAY RIO DE JANEIRO (B/-/-)
Day at leisure – the following optional tours can be booked at our local office: Optional: Half day Corcovado and beaches. Rio is famous for its lively beaches, and this tour allows you the chance to see them. The tour begins with a trip from the Cosme Velho Station aboard a cog-train through the tropical Tijuca Forest up to Corcovado Mountain. This 20 minute ride provides an opportunity to view the lush flora at first hand, while also affording spectacular views of the beaches and city. At the top of Corcovado, you disembark and head up the steps to the top lookout where the famous towering Christ the Redeemer statue stands. After taking in the magnificent view, descend by train and pass by more beaches. Optional: Full day tour to Petropolis. To escape the city, join this tour and take a scenic drive through the Serra dos Orgaos Range. Here you will enjoy the sights of the Atlantic Forest and sweeping mountain and valley landscapes. On arrival at quaint Petropolis at 850m, visit the Summer Palace, Cathedral, and go to the Crystal Palace, Santos Durmont’s House, old mansions and charming squares oozing with colonial history. (Tour can be booked including lunch). Optional: Full day tour Tropical islands cruise with lunch. For sun, sand, sea and relaxing, visit some of Rio’s close by islands. The tour heads southbound through the Green Coast to the small fishing village of Itacuruca. Board a fully equipped two-master schooner to cruise the calm, emerald waters of Sepetiba Bay, passing by lush tropical islands. The trip stops at an island for a refreshing dip, followed by a tropical-style buffet lunch at another island. Here there is time for swimming, sunning or simply relaxation. Beverages are not included. Optional: Rio by night – evening show. Not to be missed is Rio’s world-famous nightlife. Enjoy this Carnival and folkloric show featuring skilled dancers, entertainers, samba bands and colourful costumes in a demonstration of Brazilian tradition and a taste of Carnival.
DAY 12 SATURDAY RIO DE JANEIRO –DEPARTURE (B/-/-)
Transfer to the airport and return flight home.

STANDARD HOTELS
 
Santiago
Hotel Torremayor
Considered as one of the favorite Hotels in Providencia area, Torremayor Hotel is stand out because of its location, nice architecture, warm decoration and recognized style of service. Fast access to airport, near to Shopping Malls, Subway Station and several commercial and tourist places, converted it to an excellent four-star Hotel.


Mendoza
Hotel Huentala
It is located in a privileged position right in the heart of the downtown, very close to the main avenue of the city and a few blocks away from the central post office, the banking and the commercial area. In the year 2004, Huentala Hotel was acquired by HIH Hotel Investments, and from that moment onwards, they have developed a strategy to place it as a Boutique Hotel. To achieve this, the entire building is being redesigned with a complete transformation of its architecture, its under structure and services, its decoration, furnishing, equipment, room presentation, new services, event lounges, etc.


Buenos Aires
Hotel De Las Americas
Hotel De Las Americas is located in the heart of the most elegant and safe commercial and residential area of Buenos Aires, La Recoleta. Just a few meters far from the most important avenues: 9 de Julio and Santa Fe, where you will find the best luxury shops, restaurants and cafe. Short distance from the financial area, shoppings, commercial buildings, embassies, consulates, air companies, and cultural centers like Colón and Cervantes Theatre.


Iguassu
Hotel Viale Cataratas


Rio De Janeiro
Golden Tulip Cont


SUPERIOR HOTELS
 
Santiago
Hotel Atton El Bosque
This new modern hotel opened in 2007. It is located on 2770 Roger de Flor Street, a short walking distance from Tobalaba subway station, at the heart of El Golf suburb in Las Condes. Walking distance to best restaurants and the most important and modern business centers. All rooms are fully equipped with TV cable, desk, full minibar and an ample safe.


Mendoza
Hotel Nh Cordillera
NH Cordillera is very well situated, very close to the financial quarter, in the centre of the city, nearby to the Main Square, and only a short distance to the shopping areas.The hotel has 105 rooms, which includes 5 Junior Suites, 4 meeting rooms; a gym, swimming pool and a sauna.


Buenos Aires
Hotel Americas Towers
Hotel Americas Towers is located in the heart of the most elegant and safe commercial and residential area of Buenos Aires, La Recoleta. Just a few meters far from the most important avenues: 9 de Julio and Santa Fe, where you will find the best luxury shops, restaurants and cafe. Short distance from the financial area, shoppings, commercial buildings, embassies, consulates, air companies, and cultural centers like Colón and Cervantes Theatre.


Iguassu
Mabu Foz Hotel & Thermas
Located between the airport and downtown, Mabu Thermas & Resort is in the way of all the wonderful natural attractions, eco-tours and adventure, shows and the wonders of the Iguaçu Falls. All rooms are equipped with air conditioned, LCD TV, Cable TV, bathroom with shower, hairdryer, telephone, mini-bar and wireless internet.


Rio De Janeiro
Hotel Royal Rio Palace





 
TOUR RATES & DATES
 
CurrencyFromToTour CategoryTwinSingleSingle Supplement
USD 04-Jan-12 30-Apr-12 Standard 1,952.00 - 2,758.00
USD 04-Jan-12 30-Apr-12 Superior 2,286.00 - 3,315.00
USD 01-May-12 31-Dec-12 Standard 1,647.00 - 2,545.00
USD 01-May-12 31-Dec-12 Superior 2,015.00 - 3,125.00
 
FLIGHTS
 
CurrencySectorAmountComment
USDMdz/Aep, Aep/Igr + Igu/Gig720.00Please note airfare pricing and availability are not guaranteed until ticketed
 




 
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Indus Travels specialize in group and custom tours and travel to Latin America. Contact us for your travel requirements including private tours, escorted tours and custom group tours to South America. 110-8311 Westminster Hwy. Richmond, BC V6X 4H2 Canada. Tel. 604 279 8794 Toll Free:+1 866 978 2997 (USA/Canada)
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